Hair transplantation is accomplished by taking normal hair from the back of the head as a thin strip. Once the strip is taken, it is divided (under magnification) into grafts containing one or more hair follicles. Small microscopic slits are made in the area to be grafted and the grafts are inserted one at a time.
How do I know whether I am a good candidate for hair replacement surgery?
The majority of men suffering from male pattern baldness would benefit from this procedure. In addition, some women with thinning hair and people who have experienced hair loss as a result of injuries may be candidates. But only after a thorough evaluation by a doctor can surgery be considered an option. Areas of normal hair growth must be present to provide a source for the grafts.
Do hair transplants now look more natural than they used to?
Until a few years ago, micrografts and minigrafts were rarely done in great numbers. These days we usually do most cases with a large number of micrografts and minigrafts, giving a more natural look than fewer, larger grafts. With just one or two sessions done on an individual, it can be almost impossible to tell that the hair was transplanted.
Are hair transplants and scalp reductions painful?
Most people experience no real discomfort during or after the treatment. Pre-operative medications to relieve tension and local anesthetics to numb the scalp are used with both procedures. Any discomfort that may occur afterwards can be readily relieved by mild analgesics.
How soon after surgery can I return to work?
Patients usually feel nearly normal in a day or two. Some crusting in the grafted areas will usually last 7-10 days. The hairs in the grafts fall out in 2-3 weeks and new hair starts growing in approximately 12 weeks. Hair growth success can be judged in 6 months and the hair looks essentially normal in 9 months.
How many sessions are required?
That really depends on expectations and of course the amount of hair loss. Most of the time we plan on two sessions of between 1200 and 2000 grafts/session.
Where is the surgery performed?
Dr. Waldman performs all hair transplant procedures in his office surgical facility under local anesthesia. Skilled nursing care is available to assist you following your hair transplant procedure. Our surgical center is fully accredited by AAAASF.
What type of anesthesia is used?
Dr. Waldman will most commonly use local anesthesia although monitored anesthesia care with intravenous sedation is also available. whenever possible. Some people refer to this as "twilight" anesthesia. Hair transplantation is entirely on an out patient basis.
Are there risks involved with hair transplantation?
As with any surgical procedure there are risks and potential complications. In the hands of a competent plastic surgeon, major complications are infrequent after hair transplants and most patients are satisfied with their result. A careful consideration of the risks and benefits of any surgical procedure is an important part of the consultative process.
Related Procedures:
Forehead & Brow | Facelift | Mini-Facelift
